Staff at Hull College secure pay rise and improvements to observation system

UCU members at Hull College have ended their dispute over pay and lesson observations, with staff securing a pay rise and an end to no-notice observations.

UCU members took strike action in May over the college's lesson observation system, which the union said caused significant stress and anxiety amongst teaching staff. Following negotiation with the union, the college has agreed to give staff increased notice ahead of observations and develop a "critical friend" approach to observing lessons.

Staff at the college were also angry that a pay rise promised in September 2015 was never implemented. The college has now agreed to award a 0.5% pay rise, backdated to August 2015, to all staff.

UCU regional official, Julie Kelley, said: 'We're really pleased that the college has responded to the concerns raised by staff. The positive changes to lesson observations will lead to a more constructive approach and hopefully reduce stress levels, while the confirmation of a pay award is a welcome recognition of the hard work done by staff. Our members are glad to be able to draw a line under this dispute and refocus their energy on providing a great education to their students.'